Abidjan Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), welcomes international travelers through Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ), the country's main gateway. Entry requirements for Côte d'Ivoire vary significantly depending on nationality, with some travelers eligible for visa-free entry, others requiring electronic visas, and some needing traditional embassy visas. All visitors should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. The immigration process in Abidjan is relatively straightforward for properly documented travelers. Upon arrival, visitors proceed through immigration control where officers verify travel documents, visas, and entry requirements including health documentation. The airport has been modernized in recent years, though travelers should still expect standard security and customs procedures. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Côte d'Ivoire, and proof of vaccination must be presented upon arrival. Before traveling to Abidjan, ensure you have obtained the appropriate visa or travel authorization for your nationality, secured your yellow fever vaccination certificate, and familiarized yourself with customs regulations. It's advisable to have proof of onward travel, accommodation details, and sufficient funds for your stay. French is the official language, so having key documents translated or available in French can facilitate the entry process.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Côte d'Ivoire's visa policy requires most international visitors to obtain a visa before arrival, with electronic visa (e-visa) options available for many nationalities. Very few countries enjoy visa-free access to Côte d'Ivoire.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days

Citizens of ECOWAS member states can enter without a visa

Includes

ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) citizens must present a valid national ID card or passport. All other nationalities require a visa.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

Typically 30, 60, or 90 days depending on visa type

Most international travelers can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia All EU member states China India Japan South Korea Brazil South Africa Most other nationalities

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Côte d'Ivoire e-visa portal (snedai.com) at least 5-7 business days before travel. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days. Upload required documents including passport copy, photo, yellow fever certificate, and proof of accommodation. Print the approved e-visa to present upon arrival.
Cost: Approximately €50-€73 depending on visa type and duration (tourist, business, or transit)

E-visa must be printed and presented at immigration. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly. Keep a digital copy as backup. Single-entry and multiple-entry options available.

Visa Required (Embassy Application)

Varies by visa type: 30 days to 1 year

Some nationalities or special visa types require application through an embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Contact the nearest Ivorian embassy or consulate. Submit application with passport (valid 6+ months), photos, yellow fever certificate, invitation letter or hotel booking, proof of funds, and application fee. Processing takes 5-15 business days.

Required for work visas, student visas, long-term stays, and certain nationalities not eligible for e-visa. Transit passengers staying less than 24 hours in the airport may not need a visa but should verify with their airline.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan, travelers go through immigration control, baggage claim, and customs inspection. The process is generally efficient, though wait times can vary depending on flight arrivals.

Health Screening

Present your yellow fever vaccination certificate immediately upon arrival. This is mandatory for all travelers. Temperature checks or other health screenings may be conducted.

Immigration Control

Proceed to immigration counters. Present your passport, printed e-visa or visa, completed arrival card (if provided on flight), and return ticket. Officers may ask about your purpose of visit and accommodation.

Passport Stamp

Immigration officer will stamp your passport with entry date and authorized duration of stay. Verify the dates are correct before leaving the counter.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Trolleys are available. Report missing luggage to your airline's desk in the arrivals hall.

Customs Declaration

Complete customs declaration form if carrying items to declare. Proceed through customs inspection. Officers may examine luggage. Use the 'Nothing to Declare' channel if applicable.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, exit to the public arrivals area where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet your contacts.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Côte d'Ivoire. Should have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Visa or E-Visa

Printed copy of approved e-visa or visa stamp in passport. Keep digital backup accessible.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Mandatory for all travelers. Must be the official International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Vaccination must be at least 10 days old.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Côte d'Ivoire. Immigration may request to see this.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, cash, or credit cards demonstrating ability to support yourself during your stay.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Print all documents in advance, including e-visa, hotel confirmations, and return tickets. Internet access may be limited at the airport.

Keep your yellow fever certificate easily accessible - you'll need it before reaching immigration. Some travelers are checked immediately upon deplaning.

Have small denomination euros or CFA francs for tips or immediate expenses. ATMs are available but may have queues.

Be patient and courteous with immigration officers. Answer questions clearly and honestly. Avoid using mobile phones at immigration counters.

Verify your passport stamp shows the correct duration of stay before leaving the immigration counter. Overstaying can result in fines.

Dress modestly and professionally when arriving. First impressions matter at immigration control.

If you don't speak French, consider having key information written in French, or use a translation app to communicate with officials.

Keep copies of all important documents separate from originals, and save digital copies in cloud storage or email.

Customs & Duty-Free

Côte d'Ivoire customs regulations allow reasonable quantities of personal items duty-free. Travelers must declare currency above certain thresholds and prohibited items. Customs officers may inspect luggage, and penalties for violations can be severe.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal consumption only.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only.

Currency

Amounts exceeding 1,000,000 XOF (approximately €1,525) or equivalent in foreign currency must be declared

Declaration required for amounts above threshold. Failure to declare can result in confiscation. Keep declaration form for exit.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to approximately €150 in value

Items must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes. New items in quantity may be questioned.

Perfume

Reasonable quantity for personal use (typically up to 500ml)

Excessive quantities may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - severe penalties including imprisonment
Firearms and ammunition - without special import permit
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items and pirated media
Pornographic materials - strictly prohibited
Ivory and endangered species products - protected under international law
Items deemed harmful to national security or public morals
Certain food products - especially meat and dairy without veterinary certificates

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - carry in original containers with doctor's letter explaining need. Quantities should match length of stay
Professional camera equipment - may require declaration and temporary import permit if commercial use suspected
Drones and radio equipment - require prior authorization from telecommunications authority
Plants and seeds - require phytosanitary certificates
Live animals - require health certificates and import permits (see pet requirements)
Precious metals and gemstones - may require declaration and documentation
Cultural artifacts - export of Ivorian cultural property is restricted

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entering Côte d'Ivoire include mandatory yellow fever vaccination and recommended preventive measures against other diseases. Medical facilities in Abidjan are adequate but may not meet standards of developed countries.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Mandatory for all travelers aged 9 months and older. Vaccination must be at least 10 days old before arrival. International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be presented at entry.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers
Hepatitis B - Recommended for most travelers, especially if medical treatment might be needed
Typhoid - Recommended for most travelers
Malaria prophylaxis - Highly recommended; Côte d'Ivoire is a malaria-endemic country
Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on MMR, DTP, polio, and seasonal flu
Meningitis (Meningococcal) - Recommended during dry season (December-May)
Rabies - For travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact
Cholera - Consider if visiting rural areas or during outbreaks

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical care in Abidjan must often be paid for upfront in cash. Verify your insurance covers Côte d'Ivoire and includes emergency evacuation to your home country or a regional medical hub. Carry proof of insurance and emergency contact numbers.

Current Health Requirements: Check current COVID-19 and other health requirements before travel as these can change rapidly. Visit your country's travel health website or the WHO website for updates. Some countries may require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative tests. Health screening measures may be in place at the airport. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Your Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Abidjan for assistance

Register with your embassy upon arrival for safety updates. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure for current safety information and travel warnings.

Immigration Authority

Office National d'Identification (ONI) and Direction de la Surveillance du Territoire (DST)

For visa extensions, residence permits, and official immigration matters. E-visa applications: snedai.com. For inquiries, contact the nearest Ivorian embassy or consulate before travel.

Emergency Services

Police: 110 or 170, Fire: 180, Ambulance: 185

Emergency response times may be slower than in developed countries. Hotel staff can assist with emergencies. Private ambulance services are available and may be more reliable.

Airport Information

Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ)

General inquiries: +225 27 21 27 85 20. Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights. Airport website: aeria.ci

Health Emergency

Major hospitals in Abidjan include Polyclinique Internationale Sainte Anne-Marie (PISAM) and Hôpital Général de Port-Bouët

Private clinics offer better care but require immediate payment. Contact your embassy for recommended medical facilities. Consider medical evacuation insurance.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport and appropriate visa. Carry birth certificates for all children. If traveling with only one parent or without parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) in French if possible, authorizing the child to travel. This letter should include contact information for the non-traveling parent(s) and be recent (within 6 months). Children are subject to the same yellow fever vaccination requirement if over 9 months old. Unaccompanied minors require special airline arrangements and additional documentation.

Traveling with Pets

Pets require an import permit from Côte d'Ivoire Ministry of Animal Resources, valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old but not more than 12 months), and microchip identification recommended. Some breeds may be restricted. Contact the Ivorian embassy for current requirements and to obtain import permit application. Airlines have specific pet travel policies - verify in advance. Quarantine may be required depending on origin country. Prepare all documentation in French or with French translation.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas typically allow stays of 30-90 days. For longer stays, apply for a visa extension through the Office National d'Identification (ONI) or Direction de la Surveillance du Territoire (DST) in Abidjan before your initial visa expires. Extension applications require passport, current visa, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and applicable fees. Processing takes 1-2 weeks. For stays beyond tourist purposes (work, study, residence), apply for the appropriate long-term visa or residence permit through immigration authorities. Work permits require employer sponsorship and Ministry of Employment approval. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, and future entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business visitors should obtain a business visa (available as e-visa) rather than tourist visa. Carry invitation letter from Ivorian business partner or conference organizers, company registration documents, and proof of business purpose. Business visa holders cannot engage in paid employment without a work permit. For frequent business travel, consider applying for a multiple-entry visa. Register with local authorities if staying longer than 3 months.

Dual Nationals

Travelers with dual nationality including Ivorian citizenship must enter and exit Côte d'Ivoire using their Ivorian passport. If you have Ivorian heritage or family connections, verify your citizenship status before travel. Contact the Ivorian embassy for guidance on documentation requirements.

Journalists and Media

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require special accreditation from the Ministry of Communication. Apply well in advance through the Ivorian embassy. Carry accreditation documents at all times. Unauthorized journalism or photography of government buildings, military installations, or airports is prohibited and can result in detention.